The Centre on Monday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeals urging citizens to adopt responsible consumption habits were aimed at ensuring “collective participation” in tackling the economic impact of global disruptions, while asserting that there was no need for panic or panic buying.
Addressing reporters after an inter-ministerial briefing in the national capital, C Senthil Rajan, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said the Prime Minister’s remarks were intended to encourage efficient utilisation of resources amid global uncertainties linked to international conflicts and supply chain disruptions.
“Prime Minister, in his speech in Hyderabad, has called for collective participation to help India face global economic disruptions, supply chain challenges, and rising prices caused by international conflicts,” Rajan said.
“He has emphasised the need for citizens to live responsibly and fulfil duties towards the country during difficult times. The idea is optimum and efficient utilisation of available resources,” he added.
Rajan clarified that the Prime Minister’s suggestions, including reducing foreign travel, limiting non-essential purchases and promoting domestic tourism, should not be interpreted as signs of shortages.
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“It is not that there is a shortage. There are adequate stocks and arrangements have been made by all ministries,” he said.
Prime Minister Modi, while addressing a gathering in Secunderabad on Sunday, had appealed to citizens to reduce dependence on imports and adopt measures aimed at conserving foreign exchange and minimising economic pressure on the country.
Among the suggestions made by the Prime Minister were avoiding unnecessary foreign travel for a year, reconsidering destination weddings abroad, limiting gold purchases, reducing edible oil consumption and preferring public transport, carpooling and electric vehicles.
He had also called for greater adoption of natural farming practices to reduce dependence on imported fertilisers and promote environmental sustainability.
Rajan said the broader objective behind the appeals was to reduce the impact of global economic volatility on ordinary citizens.
“He is calling upon every citizen to be part of this process in minimising the impact that these economic disruptions and uncertainties have caused,” the official said.
He also stressed that there was “no need for any panic buying” and that the government had taken adequate measures to address any potential supply concerns.
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